Alberta's Industrial Heartland
Overview
Strathcona County (Alberta’s Industrial Heartland) has had a dramatic period of growth over the last three years and is considered one of the top areas in North America for future growth. Property values in this area have increased from $2000 per acre to $35,000 per acre for very poor agricultural land over the last year and a half as companies try to obtain a land position in this integrated hydrocarbon complex.
These projects are highly complicated and require a lot of space. For example Shell Canada has obtained over 27 quarter sections for their development. Spreading over 4320 acres the size of this development is enormous and really needs to be witnessed first hand. Remarkably, this is just one company, with the story remaining consistent with the other members of this highly integrated oil and gas complex.
Opportunities and Challenges
With all of these announcements, there come some serious challenges. These include supply of goods and services, labour, housing, socio-economic impact, impact on road infrastructure, potable and process water, electrical supply, pipeline construction, schools, community services, inflation. Some creative solutions will be found with the right partnerships between key stakeholders, industry and local government.
Born from solid planning principles and true regional cooperation, Strathcona County has developed into a major energy and petro-chemical powerhouse. With more then $60 Billion in announced projects, these heavy industrial developments have provided the foundation for strong economic growth in the future. The large tax contribution made by industry allows residents to pay one of the lowest rates in the country while not compromising the quality of life. In addition, various environmental management programs have been developed for residents in the area, and new initiatives are continuing to evolve. Strathcona County’s heavy industrial development has been a success and a best practice for others to emulate.
Heartland Servicing Project Team
The magnitude, rate and complexity of development in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland necessitates a coordinated approach to the planning and delivery of municipal services to the Heartland region. The establishment of a cross-functional administrative team will support effective development of the Heartland region by enhancing communications between internal corporate departments and between external stakeholders and the County.
Team Objective
To facilitate the development of the Heartland in a manner that is consistent with the County’s community vision and supports a sustainable development model. The team needs to take into account the County’s commitment to quality of life for County residents by capitalizing on opportunities and mitigating risks.
Partnerships and Associations
Alberta's Industrial Heartland Association
North East Capital Industrial Association - NCIA
Strathcona Industrial Association - SIA
Strathcona District Mutual Assistance Program - SDMAP
Community Awareness Emergency Response - NR-CAER
Alberta Energy Hub
Produced by Alberta Economic Development
Resource Links
For more information relating to what we do, maps and other Strathcona County department resources related to Alberta's Industrial Heartland within Strathcona County click here >>
Contact Information
For more information contact:
Gerry Gabinet, Manager
Economic Development & Tourism
Phone: 780-464-8257
Email: gabinet@strathcona.ab.ca
Last updated: Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Page ID: 5115